What is the North Texas Teen Book Festival?

In short, the NTTBF is a free, one-day book festival created to celebrate teen literature, from both Middle Grade and YA authors. On March 23, 2019 at the Irving Convention Center 75 authors will come together for a full day of conversation, book signings, and jubilation. Authors sign books, meet their readers, and discuss their books in over 50 small breakout panels all at the new, state-of-the-art Irving Convention Center. Books will be sold for each author at the event.

What happens at the Festival?

A lot. Every book festival is a little different, but at this festival you can expect:

Keynote and endnote speeches by authors of national or international importance

Authors reading from their books or talking about their work

Panels of authors talking about a theme common to all their work

Authors signing copies of their books for readers

Booths where you can buy books and other reading-related products

How much does the Festival cost?

NTTBF is free! Parking costs $10 per vehicle, including buses.

What is the festival schedule?

The festival will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the keynote speakers starting things off at 9 a.m. Tons and tons of panel discussions will be offered throughout the day and conclude with an endnote speaker. Author signings will start at 3:30 p.m.

How can I find out when my favorite authors will be appearing?

We are still finalizing some of the details, so the panel schedule will be released closer to the event.

How can I get more information on the authors?

All of our authors are featured on our website, with bios, website, contact and book information. Click on Authors and check out the impressive talent coming to the North Texas Teen Book Festival!

May we bring books from home to get signed?

You may bring 2 books from home for every 1 book you buy at the festival.

How many books may I get signed?

There really is no limit depending on how many times you are willing to wait in line. You may get 3 books signed per author, per trip in line (ex. 6 books from one author= 2 trips in line).

Will pre-signed books be available?

Yes, we will have a stock of pre-signed books available for purchase.

What is the seating policy for large headline events?

All readings and panel discussions are on a first-come-first-served basis unless otherwise indicated. The Speed Date with a Book event and some Author Signings will be ticketed. Ticket release schedule will be posted soon.

Will food be available at the festival?

There will be a cafe and concession stands available at the Irving Convention Center.

How do I learn more about volunteering opportunities at the Festival?

Volunteer opportunities will be available on the NTTBF website soon.

Why Irving?

Irving is a great central location for all of the North Texas area. Irving has convenient access to both airports and easy access to the DART light rail that connects most of the North Texas area. Irving Public Library has spent years building up an author following here in Irving, where people from all over the area and other states come here knowing we host great author events. This is just the next step in this process.

How is the Festival funded?

The festival was funded through a variety of methods. But, chiefly the funding for this festival can be attributed to sponsorships and donations.

How do I get to the festival?

Check out the Plan Your Visit section on the website for parking and driving details, as well as what trains and buses come to the Irving Convention Center.

I would like to present as an author. How can I do this?

Unfortunately we are no longer accepting author self-submits.

Are there going to be exhibitor booths? If so, may I sign up to host one?

Yes, we will have a few exhibitor booths during the festival. There is currently no sign up, these booths are exclusively for our sponsors and publisher partners.

FAQ for Teachers/Librarians Bringing Groups

Is there a bus drop-off site?

Yes there is.

Is there bus parking?

Yes, there will be someone directing the buses on where to park, since the location depends on the weather. Parking for buses is $10 per bus.

Can my group bring their own lunches?

The Irving Convention Center does not allow outside food on the premises; however, feel free to eat lunch outside or on your bus.

Will my kids be guaranteed a space at the panels?

We can't guarantee anything but there are a variety of opportunities to see each author. The schedule for each author will be released on the website closer to the day of the event.